Hello! I'm Oda, the Bass player for
.
Actually, lately, a whole bunch of rare Gibson models have been gathering at TCGAKKI!
When it comes to Gibson Basses, current models like the Thunderbird and SG Bass come to mind, but throughout Gibson’s long history, a wide variety of models have been produced.
While production numbers for all of these are overwhelmingly smaller compared to electric guitars, we’ve recently received some of the rarest models of all!
First up is the classic Thunderbird!
1991 Thunderbird IV
The Thunderbird debuted in 1963. After several cycles of production halts and resumptions, it evolved and transitioned into the current Thunderbird IV starting in 1987.
This particular instrument was made in 1991.
Even today, it remains one of Gibson’s iconic standard Basses and serves as a symbol for many Bassists!
The EB-1, the forerunner of Gibson Basses!
1969 EB-1
The original EB-1, introduced in 1953 as Gibson’s first electric bass, was reissued only for a brief period from around 1969 to 1972. With just over 400 units produced during the reissue, it is an extremely rare model.
Its solid mahogany body produces bass tones that seem to crawl along the ground!
The SG-shaped, double-cutaway EB-0!
1970 EB-0
The EB-0 underwent several specification changes from its debut in 1959 until production ended in 1979.
This 1970 model features the slotted headstock specification, which was produced for only a very short period starting in 1969!
It produces a bass sound so rich and enveloping, you’d never guess it comes from such a lightweight body.
Is there a Bass version too!? The Melody Maker Bass!
1968 Melody Maker Bass
Gibson’s Melody Maker (guitar) was released in 1959. Marketed as a student model, it is an extremely simple guitar equipped with a single pickup.
The Melody Maker Bass was produced for only a few years, from the late 1960s through around 1970.
While its specs are similar to the EB-0, combined with its distinctive Perham Blue finish, this model exudes a unique charm in both sound and appearance.
A truly quintessential ’80s model! The Victory Bass Standard!
1982 Victory Bass Standard Refinish
The Victory series, which features the most Fender-like shape in Gibson bass history, is said to have been crafted for the hard rock and metal scenes that were booming at the time.
The Standard was introduced in 1981 and went out of production in 1987.
The boldly slanted single pickup and the maple body—weighing over 5 kg—produce a tight and powerful sound.
Is there a Bass version too!? Part 2: The Flying V Bass!
1981 Flying V Bass
It is estimated that only about 300 to 400 units were produced during the brief original production run around 1981–1982. Although it was reissued once in 2011–2012, production was discontinued shortly thereafter, and on the current used market, this model has literally become a “phantom.”
It features a unique looseness and richness in the low to mid-range frequencies, yet with a crisp attack that ensures the sound’s contours come through clearly.
While the Flying V guitar is an absolute classic, the fact that the Bass version is so rare it’s called a “phantom” really tickles the fancy of enthusiasts.
A grand collection of these 6 Gibson Basses!
From classic models to rare ones that are rarely seen even worldwide,
You can try them all out in-store!
Please take this opportunity to try them out!
Oda, Bass Specialist at TCGAKKI